Gardnerella vaginalis is a type of bacteria that resides in the vagina as part of the vaginal flora or microbiome. The vaginal flora includes different varieties of bacteria that keep the vagina healthy, and they coexist in a delicate balance. When the levels of Gardnerella are in balance with the other bacteria, the vaginal flora prevents infections. However, if there is an imbalance and too much Gardnerella grows, it can cause a vaginal infection called bacterial vaginosis (BV) .

Here are some key points about Gardnerella vaginalis:

• Gardnerella vaginalis is not considered a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it is most likely transmitted sexually.
• Gardnerella vaginalis is associated with BV, but it is not the same as BV.
• BV is a bacterial infection that happens when the different kinds of healthy bacteria in the vagina get out of balance and grow too much.
• BV is often caused by Gardnerella vaginalis, the most common type of bacteria in the vagina.
• Anything that changes the chemistry of the vaginas pH balance can mess with bacteria levels and lead to infection.
• BV is usually easily cured with antibiotics.

In summary, Gardnerella vaginalis is a type of bacteria that is normally present in the vagina, but an overgrowth of this bacteria can cause bacterial vaginosis. BV is not considered an STI, but it can be caused by sexual activity. BV is usually treated with antibiotics.